Laois farmers and truckers welcome commitment to ease war hit on fuel prices

Organisations representing hauliers and tillage farmers in Laois and other counties have welcomed the Government's commitment to take steps to ease the pain caused by the spike in fuel prices caused by the Iran war.

Following talks with the Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien, in Dublin, Rosenallis man and IRHA President Ger Hyland said there is going to be "substantial support" announced for truckers.

Mr Hyland said there discussions will continue over the weekend, but a protest was "off the table" until after the Government announces a package of reliefs on fuel costs.

"Our members are calling for action, so unless we have something worthwhile to bring to our members next Tuesday, there will be action," he said.  MORE BELOW PHOTO.

PICTURED: Ger Hyland at his base in Rosenallis.

Meanwhile, with the fuel-hungry sowing season about to get into top gear, the Irish Grain Growers Group, which represents several Laois tillage farmers, said it welcomes the Government’s commitment to intervene on fuel prices, though it’s needed for more than the short term.

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"We recommend the carbon tax exemption be relooked at considering that tillage farmers, having a very low overall carbon footprint, are getting ready to plant crops this spring that will be required to feed our population and livestock. Agri diesel has seen a greater percentage jump than other fuels since the war in Iran began.

"The importance of our tillage sector was made very clear during the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It’s crucial that our Government support our farmers during this period of global unrest and potential trade disruption," said a statement.

The Minister said he confirmed to the haulage sector that the Government "will be bringing forward supports" for the industry next Tuesday, March 24.